Happiness, a Mystery: And 66 Attempts to Solve It

Description

Happiness is one of life's greatest mysteries. But what even is happiness? Why does it mean so many different things to different people? And how can we actually be happier? Drawing on decades of experience in crime writing, self-help and intensely curious observation of other people, Sophie Hannah sets out to solve the mystery. She lines up her cast of suspects and expert witnesses from ancient philosophers to modern self-help gurus, scientists to ordinary people from all walks of life. Leaving no stone unturned, she scrutinises the clues, evidence, and even the red herrings that unexpectedly lead to happiness. And she uncovers answers - from the secrets of a fulfilling relationship to the joys of boredom, or of the bliss of a cancelled meeting. Weaving in much-loved poems and hilarious observations from Sophie's own life, this is the ultimate guide to happiness - and the clues that can lead us there.

Sophie Hannah is a Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling writer of crime fiction, published in forty-nine languages and fifty-one territories. Her books have sold millions of copies worldwide. She has published two short story collections and five collections of poetry.

It's a pleasure to be in Hannah's company, and to address the subject of happiness ... The author is at her most charming when most contrary and questioning ... Happiness, a Mystery is optimistic - the belief that happiness is within reach forms a key part of its conclusion ... Hannah's peculiar, exasperating, funny and immensely readable shaggy dog story is worth being gathered into the drawing room for * Guardian *